Obituary of Mary I. DeSalvio

Mary I. DeSalvio, 97 of Rome, passed away at her home with her loving family by her side, on Sunday October 2, 2022 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s.

Mary was born January 1, 1925, to Owen and Margaret Inserra in Utica, NY. She married Alfonse DeSalvio in 1956 and they enjoyed a wonderful relationship for 66 years. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband Alfonse DeSalvio of Rome, NY, her son Michael DeSalvio of Rome, a daughter Marguerite Chayka and husband Paul of New Milford, CT, and four grandchildren, Marisa DeSalvio of Sherrill, NY, Kyle Chayka of Washington DC, Danielle DeSalvio of Seattle, WA and Kerry Chayka of Boulder, CO and former daughter in-law Kristin DeSalvio of Sherrill, NY.

Mary worked as a secretary at RADC, where she met her husband. She was a believer in women’s equality and followed through with those beliefs by opening a women owned business with two friends selling fabrics. Later in life, she advanced her education by doing “online” learning (by mail) and received a certificate in Interior Decorating. She took great pride putting this to use in her family home and those of her customers and friends over the years. In 1974 she and Al purchased Delta Knolls Golf Center in Rome. They worked developing that business with their son, Michael, until well into their 80’s.

Mary volunteered for many years at the American Red Cross and Rome Hospital Twigs. She was a member of Griffiss Ski Club, Wednesday Morning Club and Lake Delta Yacht Club. Mary was deeply religious and volunteered in many roles as a member of St. Joseph's church in Lee Center, NY.

Mary, along with her husband Al, were well known as excellent dancers and danced every chance they could. They cleared many a dance floor as others stopped to watch and applaud. Mary was a wonderful example of all that a mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, wife, friend, aunt, and independent woman could be.

Our family is deeply grateful for the love and excellent care she received from her many caregivers. We are also grateful for swim partner Betsy, who allowed her to keep up with her favorite pastime, swimming, into her late 80’s. You all made Mary’s life and ours so much better.

A funeral service will be held at St. Joseph's Church Lee Center, NY at 11:00am on October 22, 2022.  Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome NY 13440.

You may light a candle, send a message of sympathy, and read the obituary at www.nunnandharper.com.